Mentee: Emmanuella Asabor
Mentor: Dr. Sotonye Imadojemu
Skin of Color Clinic at Brigham
I am deeply grateful for the support provided by the Skin of Color Society Observership Program, which enabled my recent transformative experience at Harvard under the mentorship of Dr. Sotonye Imadojemu, Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School and Director of both the Cutaneous Sarcoidosis and Granulomatous Diseases Clinic and the Skin of Color Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. This opportunity combined sarcoidosis and environmental toxin research with a two-week clinical observership in outpatient and inpatient dermatology, allowing me to integrate my PhD in epidemiology, passion for health equity, and burgeoning interest in skin of color dermatology with Dr. Imadojemu’s expertise in granulomatous diseases, complex medical dermatology, and clinical research.
In the research component, I explored the associations between environmental toxins and sarcoidosis prevalence across specific neighborhoods in Massachusetts. My work involved epidemiological study design, spatial statistical data analysis, and the visualization of disease patterns, highlighting how environmental exposures may contribute to disparities in cutaneous sarcoidosis. By identifying geographic trends and potential environmental risk factors, this work underscores the critical need to address structural determinants of health that disproportionately affect communities of color.
Complementing my research, my clinical observership encompassed diverse outpatient dermatology clinics and inpatient dermatologic consultations. I observed a broad spectrum of skin conditions, from common concerns like acne, alopecia, and atopic dermatitis to complex autoimmune and granulomatous disorders. The inpatient experience provided valuable insight into the dermatology resident’s role within multidisciplinary teams managing severe skin diseases. Witnessing Dr. Imadojemu’s seamless integration of clinical excellence with research rigor highlighted the power of evidence-based practice to improve patient outcomes, particularly for populations historically underrepresented in dermatologic research and care. Her approach to her work is deeply inspiring, and her mentorship has been the greatest gift of this experience.
The Skin of Color Society Observership Program has solidified my commitment to a career in dermatology that bridges clinical practice with impactful, equity-driven research. It has reinforced my dedication to addressing the complex interplay between environmental, systemic, and social determinants of dermatologic health.
Thank you for your support at this pivotal step in my professional journey.
Sincerely,
Emmanuella Asabor